By Robert Segawa
The Uganda Police Force has confirmed that members of the ghetto youth structure have been recruited as special police constables to support security during the ongoing electoral process.
Police had earlier advertised for the recruitment of 100,000 probationary polling constables to assist in maintaining law and order during elections.
Addressing the press today at Police Headquarters in Naguru, the Chief Political Commissar, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Ubaldo Bamunoba, said the ghetto youth were recruited through the standard police recruitment procedures.
He emphasized that any constable who misbehaves or acts contrary to the law should be reported immediately to their supervisors for appropriate action.
On the heightened security deployment across the country, AIGP Bamunoba assured the public of maximum protection to ensure that Ugandans are able to vote freely and without hindrance.
He explained that the massive deployment being witnessed nationwide is intended to deter any potential criminal activity before, during, and after the polls.
The police also called upon sister security agencies to support the operation, noting that personnel numbers remain limited. These agencies include the Uganda Prisons Service, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), and the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
Bamunoba reiterated that the police will not tolerate any form of criminality during the electoral period. He warned individuals intending to incite violence, as well as voters who loiter around polling stations after voting, that such actions will not be allowed and will be dealt with according to the law.
He urged all eligible Ugandans to peacefully exercise their constitutional right to vote and choose leaders of their choice.
Finally, Bamunoba cautioned candidates, their supporters, and the general public to remain law-abiding and exemplary in order to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process.
